Private Half Day Speedboat tour to Kornati National Park

Exploring Croatia’s Kornati National Park by boat is one of those must-do adventures, and this private half-day speedboat tour from Zadar offers an intimate, flexible way to experience its natural beauty. With a focus on personalized itineraries, fewer crowds, and the chance to see some hidden gems, it’s perfect for travelers who crave authentic, scenic encounters with the Croatian coastline.

What we particularly love about this tour is its ability to combine stunning water views with relaxed stops for swimming, snorkeling, and coastal walks—all from the comfort of your private boat. However, it’s worth noting that there’s an entrance fee to the park and a fuel surcharge, which add to the overall cost. Still, for those seeking a custom, off-the-beaten-path adventure, this trip offers excellent value.

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy personalized, flexible excursions, want to avoid crowded tours, and love being on the water. If your ideal day involves exploring scenic islands, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and discovering lesser-visited spots, this tour ticks many boxes.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: A private tour means your group sets the pace and chooses stops based on your interests.
• Stunning Views: From the boat, you’ll enjoy breathtaking vistas of Kornati and surrounding islands.
• Active & Relaxing: Opportunities to swim and snorkel around Lojena Bay or stroll along coastlines.
• Flexible Itinerary: Unlike large group tours, this offers the chance to venture further to hidden beaches and islands.
• Expert Skipper: The guide, often praised for their skill and friendliness, makes the experience smooth and enjoyable.
• Additional Costs: Be prepared for an entrance fee and fuel surcharge, which are not included in the base price.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point & Departure Details

The tour kicks off from Zadar’s Marina Tankerkomerc, right in the city center—easy to reach whether you’re staying nearby or arriving by public transport. The departure time is typically at 8:00 am, giving you a half-day of exploration before the afternoon.

The Scenic Ride to Kornati

Once aboard, you’ll cruise through the Zadar channel, passing Ugljan and Paman islands. The boat travels comfortably at around 25 mph, allowing you to soak in the sights of the archipelago’s myriad islands, including U, Sit, Dugi Otok, and Lavdara. The route under the bridge connecting Ugljan and Paman is a highlight itself, offering impressive perspectives of the Croatian coastline.

Arrival at Kornati National Park

Within approximately 20 minutes after passing under the bridge, you’ll arrive at Kornati National Park, which comprises 89 islands and is renowned for its rugged cliffs and clear waters. Unlike larger tour groups, this private experience ensures fewer travelers and more freedom to explore.

What You’ll Do During the Tour

Magnificent Views from the Water: The boat provides fantastic vantage points to admire the island formations, cliffs, and the vastness of the park. Reviewers highlight that the views alone make the trip worthwhile.

Multiple Stops: The itinerary includes swimming and snorkeling around Lojena Bay—an area described as perfect for cooling off and exploring marine life. The crew supplies diving masks, so you’re set for underwater adventures. Also, there’s time to walk along the coastlines or relax on deserted beaches, which many larger tours often skip.

Exploring Hidden Islands: One of the tour’s strengths is its ability to go beyond the usual highlights. You might venture further to secluded beaches or islands that are off the typical tourist radar, giving you a more genuine experience of the park’s untouched beauty.

Personalized Experience: The private nature of the tour means your group can tailor the stops, making it more relaxed and less rushed than group tours. Reviewers mention the captain, Marin, as a “lovely host” who’s both fun and skilled at navigating the tricky waters.

What We Loved About the Tour

From the reviews, it’s clear that the stunning water views are a major highlight. The boat’s vantage points allow for perfect photo ops of the archipelago’s rugged cliffs and scattered islands. The flexibility to visit lesser-known spots means you won’t be elbow-to-elbow with crowds, which is rare in popular national parks.

The friendly skipper adds a lot of value, with reviewers praising Marin for his excellent navigation skills and warm hospitality. It’s these personal touches that elevate the experience from just a boat ride to a memorable adventure.

Snorkeling & Beach Time

Many travelers appreciated the opportunity to swim around Lojena Bay, with diving masks provided. The water is said to be crystal clear, making snorkeling especially rewarding. The beaches are often deserted, offering a peaceful escape with spectacular scenery.

Authenticity & Intimacy

The private aspect allows for more authentic interactions and a relaxed pace. Instead of a crowded vessel, you’re on your own little vessel of discovery, which reviewers say makes the experience more special.

What Could Be Better

The main consideration is the additional fees—the €60 entrance fee to Kornati National Park and a fuel surcharge of €160 per booking. While these are standard in many tours, they do increase the overall expense beyond the base price of $179 per person.

Plus, since the tour is around five hours, it’s a fairly compact window, which is perfect for a quick escape but might not satisfy those craving a full-day adventure.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start at Zadar Marina

The adventure begins with a scenic cruise from Zadar’s marina, allowing you to appreciate the city’s coastal charm. The skipper provides commentary about the islands and the local area, setting the stage for the day ahead.

Cruising the Archipelago

Expect to see islands like Ugljan, Sit, Dugi Otok, and Lavdara, with views that are often described as postcard-worthy. The boat ride is comfortable and lively, with many guests noting how enjoyable it is to watch the Croatian coast slide by at a leisurely pace.

Approaching Kornati Park

The boat heads towards Kornati, passing under the bridge connecting Ugljan and Paman, which is a notable feature of the route. At this point, the landscape starts to become more dramatic, with steep cliffs and rocky formations.

Within Kornati National Park

Once inside, the boat stations at different points for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring. Many reviews mention the sheltered Lojena Bay as a favorite spot for its calm, clear waters and abundant marine life.

Additional Hidden Spots

The tour’s flexibility means your skipper can take you further to find those quiet beaches or islands that few visitors see. This aspect is especially appreciated by those who want a more exclusive, untouched experience.

Pricing & Value

The tour costs $179 per person, which might seem steep at first glance. However, considering it’s a private experience with a dedicated skipper, the personalized itinerary, and the inclusion of snorkel gear and bottled water, the value becomes clearer.

Adding the €60 park entrance fee and €160 fuel surcharge increases the overall cost, but these are standard for such excursions and contribute to a seamless, hassle-free day on the water.

Who This Tour Suits Best

This experience is ideal for travelers who value privacy, customization, and authentic encounters with Croatia’s marine scenery. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or families seeking a relaxed yet adventurous half-day out. If you’re someone who doesn’t mind paying a little extra for a more intimate and flexible tour, this is a solid choice.

The Sum Up

This private speedboat tour to Kornati National Park offers a fantastic way to explore Croatia’s stunning islands without the crowds, with the added benefit of a flexible, customized itinerary. The views from the water are breathtaking, and the opportunity to swim and walk along secluded coasts makes it well worth the cost. The knowledgeable skipper, Marin, ensures a smooth journey filled with local insights, making this experience both enjoyable and enriching.

If you love the idea of exploring off-the-beaten-path islands, appreciate a personalized touch, and want to make the most of your half-day in Zadar, this tour fits the bill. It might not be the cheapest option, but the exclusivity, scenery, and relaxed pace make it a worthwhile splurge for those seeking a genuine Croatian maritime adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately five hours, starting at 8:00 am and returning to Zadar later in the morning.

Where does the tour start?
It begins from Zadar’s Marina Tankerkomerc, located in the city center at Ul. Ivana Metrovia 3.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the skipper fee, boat rental, diving masks, and bottled water.

Are there additional costs?
Yes, there’s a €60 entry fee for Kornati National Park and a €160 fuel surcharge per booking.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s exclusive to your group, offering a customized experience without other travelers onboard.

Can I snorkel during the tour?
Absolutely, snorkel masks are provided, and you can snorkel around Lojena Bay or other scenic spots.

What if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed, but consider the boat ride’s length and activity level for younger children.

How far in advance should I book?
Confirmation is immediate unless booked within 7 days of travel, in which case it takes up to 48 hours. It’s best to book early to secure your preferred date.

What is the main highlight of this tour?
The breathtaking views of Kornati’s rugged islands and the chance to explore less-visited areas make this trip special.

This private Kornati speedboat experience combines scenic beauty, personalized service, and active relaxation, making it a memorable half-day adventure for those wanting an authentic taste of Croatia’s stunning waters.